The Government has approved a significant devolution deal for Devon, allowing more local decision-making. The new combined authority aims to address key regional issues.
With the backing of the Government, Devon embarks on a path towards enhanced local governance. This agreement promises job development, housing improvements, and environmental initiatives.
The creation of a ‘super council’ in Devon has received the green light. This initiative, driven by Devon County Council and Torbay Council, aims to establish a combined county authority (CCA), ultimately granting them more autonomy. The decision faced delays in mid-2024 but has now been authorised to commence.
This decision significantly shifts the balance of power from Whitehall to the local authorities. With £16 million allocated for capital projects, local leaders are poised to make impactful changes across Devon.
The devolution agreement will prioritise local concerns such as employment, housing, and environmental policies. By handling these matters at a regional level, the combined authority aims to better cater to the needs of the community.
Devon’s leadership sees this as an opportunity to tailor solutions specific to the region’s unique challenges. Decisions about the local development agenda will no longer wait for national approval.
The £16 million in capital funding will focus on green initiatives, including jobs, homes, skills, and business growth.
The goals include the potential to nurture emerging industries and improve existing infrastructure to support sustainable development.
Working closely with the private sector, the CCA plans to draft a Local Growth Plan aimed at sustainable regional economic progress.
The new authority will also oversee adult education directly, with plans to create up to 50,000 new training opportunities by 2030.
Collaboration with the Police and Crime Commissioner will ensure a harmonised approach to regional safety and educational improvement.
This initiative underscores the importance of interconnected local governance to drive comprehensive change.
Notable by its absence in the initial agreement is Plymouth City Council, which has been invited to join the initiative.
Leaders in Devon are open to extending this collaborative effort to include more partners in the future.
The proposal to include Plymouth and even Cornwall could expand benefits across a broader area.
James McInnes of Devon County Council regards this as a pivotal moment for regional empowerment.
David Thomas of Torbay Council has expressed optimism about the enhanced influence this partnership will provide.
The sentiment among local leaders is one of collaboration and optimism for future devolution enhancements.
The Devon and Torbay CCA could convene as soon as early 2025.
This marks an exciting chapter for local governance, with leaders preparing to seize new opportunities.
The Government’s approval marks a transformative moment for Devon’s future. By adopting local governance, the region stands poised to improve in numerous crucial areas.
Devon’s new devolution deal exemplifies a commitment to region-centric development, offering a promising path forward for enhanced autonomy and local decision-making.
